Description
Book SynopsisThis book examines the landscape of sustained investment in research and innovation in Africa, which are critical for development. This cutting-edge analysis is based on empirical evidence and the author’s experience in managing health and related innovations on the continent and globally. It concludes, for the first time, that African innovation is largely driven by the principles of Social, rather than Technological innovation. The significance of this finding and the need to optimize, scale and sustain this dominant innovation is addressed in various chapters that analyze the status, challenges and opportunities. Particularly, the financing, collaboration and coordination patterns for these activities on the continent show a fragmented ecosystem that is largely dependent on external donors and aid. The importance of supportive policies, leadership and venture mechanisms that incentivizes public and private entities to innovate is further exemplified by the lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic. The book proposes mechanism to address identified challenges.
Table of Contents1. Introduction: Demographics and Frameworks for African-Led Research, Innovation and Development 2. Landscape for Research and Innovation in Africa.3. Research, Invention and Innovation: Social and Technological—What Do They Mean?4. ANDI and African Health Innovation5. Human, Institutional and Financial Resources, and Partnerships6. African Traditional Knowledge, Other Technologies and Emerging Areas7. Technology Readiness Levels, the Valley of Death and Scaling Up Innovations8. Manufacturing in Africa 9. Adopting and Adapting Innovations: Frugal, Leapfrogging and Open Innovation Approaches10. Brain Drain, the African Diaspora and Innovation in Africa11. COVID-19 Pandemic, Leadership and Ownership of Innovation in Africa12. Integrating Innovation and Entrepreneurship into the African Educational System: Concept of IDEA University
